As the name suggests, Pearl of Papua is a traditional Buginese schooner that specialises in dive cruises to Raja Ampat, Indonesia. For most of the year you can see this 28m Raja Ampat liveaboard cutting through the pristine waters of the West Papua Province.

Pearl of Papua sets itself further apart from other Indonesia diving cruises by running shorter trips: from 6 to 10 nights' duration, in and out of Sorong. This makes it a great option for those with constraints on time or budget.

Up to 15 guests can be accommodated in 7 en-suite cabins on board what is a relatively small liveaboard which prides itself on customer service. With 3 dive guides it always means small diver groups and plenty of personal attention. Aiming to provide a luxury experience at a great value, Pearl of Papua features an air-conditioned saloon/dining area with entertainment facilities and a sun deck with chairs and mats for those who prefer to relax outdoors.

Cruises on Pearl of Papua mean that the wonderful dive sites of Raja Ampat are now open to more people, since the shorter tours and affordable prices make it possible for many more scuba divers to experience this wonderful region. If that includes you then, with Pearl of Papua, the world is your oyster.

How to get there: Pearl of Papua's liveaboard cruises normally depart from Sorong in West Papua. You can fly directly to Sorong from Jakarta, Ujung Pandang (Makassar) and Manado. From Bali there are convenient connections via Ujung Pandang (Makassar) and Manado. We will help you arrange return domestic flights between Bali or Jakarta and the port of departure. There is a transfer service from the local airport to and from the boat. For more information see our West Papua travel information section. For trips using other departure ports we will assist you with information on how to get there. The last dive of the trip will be at around 04.00pm on the second last day of the trip. Please wait at least 18 hours before flying after diving.

Non-diver rate: 10% off the published price.

Single supplement (if you do not want to share accommodation): This is optional - single travellers may choose to share a cabin or pay a supplement of US$ 175 of the published price per night.

Dive clubs and group discounts: Pay for 6 guests and receive a 10% discount. Pay for 9 guests and 1 extra person can join free of charge. See whole boat charter rate below.

The Pearl of Papua has 7 cabins with en-suite private bathrooms. There are 2 Trevally (Master) twin or double bed cabins on the upper deck with large seaview windows. On the lower deck there are 4 Seahorse (Standard) twin bunk bed cabins and 1 Manta (Suite) 3-share double/twin bed cabin, all with portholes for natural lighting. All beds are 2m long.

Beginning with lunch on your first day, your dining experience in Raja Ampat on board Pearl of Papua will involve a fusion of Asian and international cuisine. Pre-breakfast, breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks each day will ensure your hunger pangs are kept at bay.